Georgetown, Illinois - Judie Steelman Carlton died unexpectedly on May 25, 2026 — a woman who, on her own terms, built a life worth celebrating. She will be welcomed into heaven by her parents Burnell & Betty Steelman; brother Kenny Steelman; sister Connie Reinbolt.

Judie was born July 30, 1947, in Danville, IL. She graduated from Georgetown High School in 1965. She married James Carlton in November 1965 and together they had three children—Kristi Carlton Latoz (Kevin); Brad Carlton (Donna); Duane Carlton (Ange). They all survive as well as her brother Keith Steelman (Sheila); sister Joyce Coon. Also surviving is her close friend Dr. Donald Rokosch.

Judie fiercely loved her grandchildren—Lucas Latoz; Levi Latoz; Jarret Carlton; Josh Carlton; Kyle Carlton; Haley Carlton. She immersed herself in their lives by supporting them in every sport, concert, and special event they were involved with. Along the way she documented their lives and would spend countless hours creating scrapbooks full of pictures that each one will cherish for the rest of their lives.

Judie lived life to the fullest. For more than 25 years she could be found dancing at the Regent Ballroom in Savoy. She loved to dress up, whether it be for dancing, parties or often with her close friends in the Dress Up Dolls group. She valued her friendships and would occasionally mark them through writing special poems.

Judie worked at Lakeview Medical Center, later Provena United Samaritans Medical Center, until her retirement in 2013. There she built friendships that have lasted throughout her life. She was a member of the Olivet Nazarene Church and the Georgetown Historical Society.

Visitation will be at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 200 E West Street Georgetown, Illinois on Friday, May 29th from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm. A celebration of life service will begin at 6:00 pm. Graveside service will be at Sunset Memorial Park in Danville, Illinois on Monday, June 1st at 10:00 AM. Please join Judy's family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Georgetown Fire Protection District.